10 New Accessories Trends Worth Giving A Whirl

What is it about accessories that make women go insane? A generally spendthrift lady might drop a grand on a bag, a typically prim prep somehow ends up with a pair of studded pumps as her favorite shoes, and a minimalist (who might only own one pair of jeans) somehow has a sunglasses collection that rivals Anna Dello Russo's… you might as well call them excessories, all things considered.

But regardless of the causes of this phenomenon, we're glad it happens: For us, those bold accents are the most fun — not to mention most egalitarian — part of fashion. And fortunately, the spring '13 runways were chock-full of ballsy accessories trends, so we've highlighted the eight that we felt were most compelling.Some are universally flattering, some are a little challenging, but all deserve your critical eye — and obsessive adoration.

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Body Harnesses — Unlike the studded, spiky harnesses of years past, these modern iterations are meant to complement flowing, girly dresses. This is one of the few times we'll thank Fifty Shades of Grey for anything — but we're loving these subtle touches of fetishwear to take the sweetness out of ordinary separates.

Layered Platforms — Stacked, graphic stripes gave platform sandals a mod feel. These shoes look best with thick, simple straps and chunky heels — anything more delicate would turn them into a costume shoe!

Choker Necklaces — It seems like we've all gotten used to the delicate choker necklace by now, because designers are graduating to huge, ornate versions that sit right at the top of your décolletage. It's the perfect topping to a strapless dress or crew-necked sweater.

Double-Wristed Bangles — There's something about perfect symmetry that's just so satisfying, and we're sure Wonder Woman would have agreed. The trick is to anchor you outfit by wearing two bold bangles to spice up a simple shirt or two minimalist bangles to tone down a print.

Superhero Belts — Wide belts have helped to keep loose trousers and roomy dresses in place for seasons, but we love that this season's powerful-looking belts that come in metallics and with hardware. Just don't wear them with the double-wristed bangles unless it's Halloween.

Ladylike Gladiators — Gladiator sandals might have been received with mixed reviews the last time they came into fashion, but these pairs are much less literal and a whole lot more flattering. The trick is to find a sandal with a slim heel and thin straps — any thicker and you'll start to look like Russell Crowe.

Mixed-Media Bags — With feathers, beads, buckles, and straps adorning bags, maximalist clutches and totes provide a nice contrast to the simple handbags that have dominated the runways in recent years. While an everything-but-the-kitchen sink approach might not be practical for everyday use, it sure is pretty to look at.

Embellished Sunglasses — Like the prettier version of those Groucho Marx gag glasses, these fancy sunnies give you an opportunity to leave the house sans-makeup, sans-jewelry, and sans-hairdo, and still manage to look like Anna Dello Russo.

Blanket Scarves — Big, tissue-thin scarves are our savior during the wintertime, and there was no shortage of beautiful options on the spring '13 runways. Our favorites were printed in bright, poppy patterns.